Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

RSV infection is the most important cause of hospitalisation in infants and one of the leading global causes of infant mortality and as such its prevention through immunisation is a public health priority.

In the UK RSV accounts for approximately 450,000 GP appointments, 29,000 hospitalisations and 83 deaths per year in children and adolescents, the majority in infants. It also has a major impact on elderly adults; 175,000 GP appointments, 14,000 hospitalisations and 8,000 deaths per year in the UK.

There are currently no specific treatments for RSV infection and the management is purely supportive (oxygen supplementation and feeding support for infants). RSV monoclonal antibodies including palivizumab and motavizumab are available as prophylaxis against severe RSV infection, however, they are currently only used in a tiny proportion of people due to their extremely high cost and need for a monthly injection and there is currently no licensed vaccine.

The aim of our research is to reduce the burden of severe RSV disease in vulnerable populations (infants and elderly adults) by:

“A Phase 2b Randomised, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of MEDI8897, a Monoclonal Antibody With an Extended Half-life Against RSV, in Healthy Preterm Infants”.

“Management of viral bronchiolitis in infancy in primary and secondary care study”